A common feature of these new hybrids is that they maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions by combining a small gasoline-fueled engine with a powerful battery and an electric motor. Electric power is used to supplement the engines power, allowing the use of a smaller and more fuel-efficient engine. As well, the gasoline engine and electric motor/generator can recharge the battery, unlike in an electric car where the battery has to be plugged in to an external power source

A common feature of these new hybrids is that they maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions by combining a small gasoline-fueled engine with a powerful battery and an electric motor. Electric power is used to supplement the engines power, allowing the use of a smaller and more fuel-efficient engine. As well, the gasoline engine and electric motor/generator can recharge the battery, unlike in an electric car where the battery has to be plugged in to an external power source